President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called upon the Chinese government to broaden access to its market for finished goods from nations like Uganda.
Speaking during a meeting with a delegation from the National People’s Congress of China, led by Deputy Chairman Luosang Jiangcun, at State House Entebbe, Museveni emphasized the importance of promoting trade in processed goods rather than merely raw materials.
Museveni stated the significance of the Chinese market for Uganda’s prosperity and economic growth. He encouraged China to expand its openness to finished products, citing the mutual benefits it could bring to both nations.
“Africa’s challenge has been the export of raw materials, resulting in less income and job loss.When you hear that there are crises in many African countries, this is the root cause. The economy cannot grow without value addition. It is important for China and Africa to engage in trading finished products more,” Museveni said.
He acknowledged that China had already made positive strides by allowing 400 products to enter its market without taxes and limitations, a move he deemed crucial in providing tangible support to the producing countries.
Museveni also credited China for recent collaborations, including hydro dam projects, the construction of an expressway, and contributions from companies like Huawei in developing Uganda’s internet backbone.
President Museveni extended his thanks to his Chinese counterpart, President Xi Jinping, for supporting Africa’s efforts to reform the UN Security Council and secure two permanent seats for the continent.
He also praised Jinping for sending a high-level delegation to attend the upcoming Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G-77+China Summits in Kampala, scheduled for January.
Deputy Chairman Luosang Jiangcun, leading the Chinese delegation, expressed gratitude for Museveni’s role in promoting China-Africa friendship and cooperation.
He conveyed President Xi Jinping’s greetings and praised Museveni as an experienced politician and a leader with high prestige in Africa. Luosang acknowledged Museveni’s commitment to an independent development path, citing notable progress in Uganda’s socio-economic development under his strong leadership.